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Today's world is changing from the way our grandparents lived and our perceptions have to adjust to the way we see others around us. For centuries, animals of all types have been used to comfort man and then suddenly man decided that their dogs, cats, and other pets were expendable. Thankfully, many of these animals were placed in no-kill shelters.

For the person needing a service dog but unable to afford several thousand dollars to buy a purebred dog, a local pound may be their best option. My personal experience has been wonderful. I found my flat-coated black retriever through a group called Paws-Up, Inc. They happened to have bought her at the last minute without even having a client to give her to. Two weeks later, I called needing a seizure alert dog. As they say, the rest is history.

There are a wide variety of service animals available to people. Some prefer a large dog that can help brace them if they fall, some have a preference for a small dog because their needs are different. There are also cases where certain types of small monkeys are capable of learning how to help their owner as a service animal. And yes, even Fluffy your cat can be a service animal if she is trained properly.

There is always going to be those people that will look at you funny when you bring a service animal into places that clearly say NO DOGS, but just be confident and realize that you have the right to be there. You have the power to stand up for the very thing you would want if you and your dog traded places. Do cherish your dog, have fun with him, comfort him, and when his time comes bury him under his favorite tree. Love a dog today and visit your local pound-you might just find a new family friend.

Learn more about this author, Lori Hill.
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